The first of a new series of ’Green Walk and Talk’ events begins today in the Ballaugh Curraghs.

Thirteen sessions have been set up from Friday, April 26, to Friday, August 16, to encourage people to venture out into the countryside in a group supervised by qualified staff.

The sessions are open to all ages and abilities and walks vary from 1.5 miles to three miles.

Lesley Patterson, the government’s health and wellbeing coordinator, said: ’It is lovely to chat to people while out exploring and the Green Walk and Talk sessions are an ideal opportunity for individuals to try something new while exploring the beautiful Manx countryside in a safe environment.

’By taking part in the sessions we hope that the walks will lead people to having the confidence to venture out in small groups or by themselves.’

The sessions take place at different locations around the island from 1.30pm to 3pm and cost £2.50 per session with the exception of the final session on August 16, which will cost £7.50.

For more details phone 686852, email [email protected] or visit msr.gov.im/sportsactivities/adultactivities/walk-and-talk